Livestock Arrival and Ante-Mortem Inspection
The processing journey begins before slaughter. Livestock receiving, identification, animal condition and ante-mortem inspection are important parts of an inspected slaughter operation.
Plan livestock arrival
Processors should give producers clear receiving instructions, including delivery times and any facility-specific procedures.
Predictable scheduling reduces unnecessary delays for livestock, producers and facility staff.
Identification and traceability
Canada’s livestock traceability system includes requirements relating to animal identification, premises and movement.
Cattle generally require an approved identifier before leaving the farm of origin, subject to specified regulatory exceptions.
What is ante-mortem inspection?
Ante-mortem means before death. At inspected Alberta slaughter operations, animals are examined before slaughter as part of the meat-inspection process.
Animals showing conditions that require additional attention can be identified and handled according to the applicable inspection requirements.
Meat inspection does not begin only after a carcass is on the rail. Assessment of the animal before slaughter is part of the system.
Animal welfare during receiving
Unloading and holding should be managed to minimize unnecessary stress and injury. Facility design, stockmanship and communication with livestock transporters all contribute to responsible handling.
Communication with producers
Processors should make livestock receiving requirements easy to find. Producers should disclose relevant concerns and follow the facility’s delivery procedures.
- Government of Alberta – Alberta Meat Inspection System
- CFIA – Livestock Traceability Overview
- National Farm Animal Care Council – Beef Cattle Code of Practice
Last reviewed: September 2026.